In the not-so-distant past, Kratie was a thriving trading outpost on the Mekong River, known for its easy connections across Cambodia and Laos. After a peak in the French colonial era, the town’s grand fortunes and buildings faded. In recent years, Kratie has undergone a renaissance—as the home of the endangered Irrawaddy river dolphin and as one of Cambodia’s premier ecotourism hot spots. The top things to do in Kratie include island-hopping and dolphin-spotting boat tours, along with countryside tours to rural villages and vibrant markets.
The best time to visit Kratie is in Cambodia’s dry season, from November to March. This is when the weather is best for exploring, and the conditions are best for seeing Irrawaddy dolphins—the waters of the Mekong are clearer and calmer than in the rainy season. Although you can visit Kratie anytime, summer is generally hotter, wetter, and more humid.
The best way to get around Kratie is by tuk-tuk, taxi, or boat. While boat tours are ideal for seeing the Irrawaddy dolphins or exploring the islands on the Mekong, Kratie is easily walkable. Wandering the streets allows you to admire the old French architecture and explore the markets. Bicycles and tuk-tuks are perfect for getting out of town and exploring the rice paddies and local villages, while taxis are better for more distant destinations.
Kratie is known as one of the top places in the world to see the playful Irrawaddy dolphin. Boat trips are the best way to catch a glimpse of these creatures in the wild; however, given their endangered status, it isn’t guaranteed. Maximize your chances by opting for an early morning or late afternoon tour—when they’re most active—and visiting in the dry season.
